How to Use Flash While Recording a TikTok Video (2026 Guide)

January 21, 2026

To use the flash while recording on TikTok, open the camera screen (+) and tap the Flash icon (lightning bolt symbol ⚡) located on the right-hand sidebar. Tapping this icon cycles through the On, Off, and Auto modes. You can toggle this setting both before you start filming and while the recording is in progress.

This guide provides the exact technical steps to locate and operate the flash toggle within the TikTok recording interface. This feature is integrated directly into the camera tools for immediate access during the production process.

Where is the Flash Icon in the TikTok Interface?

The flash button is only visible when you are in the active camera mode. Before adjusting your lighting, you may want to ensure you are familiar with the complete steps to record a video on TikTok.

In the 2026 version of the app, the Flash tool is located on the right-side toolbar of the recording screen. It is represented by a small lightning bolt (⚡) icon. If the icon is not immediately visible, tap the downward arrow (v) on the sidebar to expand the full list of camera tools.

Steps to Toggle Flash On and Off

You can change your flash settings at any point during the production of a clip:

Open the Camera: Tap the (+) icon at the bottom of the TikTok home screen.
Enable Flash: Tap the Flash icon until it is highlighted or shows the “On” status. Your device’s LED will activate immediately.
Adjust Mid-Recording: While the red recording bar is moving, you can tap the same Flash icon to turn the light off or back on without pausing the video.
Set to Auto: If available on your device, the “Auto” mode will trigger the flash only when the app detects insufficient light.

Note: Location in Live Mode
The flash icon is found in the same position on the side toolbar when you are accessing the TikTok Live feature.

Conclusion

Using the flash on TikTok is strictly a matter of locating and tapping the lightning bolt icon (⚡) on the recording sidebar. By mastering this quick toggle, you can directly control your device’s light source while recording to ensure your subject is visible.